Pearl Danio | Brachydanio albolineatus
Cyprinds / Danios / Pearl Danio
Profile: Pearl Danio
Brachydanio albolineatus Synonyms: Danio albolineata, Nuria albolineata
Physical description: A slender and elongated species with a forked tail. The body ranges in colors depending on the lighting. In reflected light, the body is iridescent violet to blue, The belly is faintly blue, while the back is slightly darker blue. An iridescent orange, lateral stripe extends from the caudal fin to the middle of the body. Below this, is a shorter line with the same color. Two pairs of barbels are located on the lips of the mouth.
Size/Length: To 2.4" (6 cm)
Similar species: None
Habitat: Inhabits rice patties, canal, and slow parts of brooks and creeks. Southeast Asia; Burma (Myanmar), India, Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, Thailand.
S: middle, bottom
Aquarium: A tank measuring 30" (76 cm) with a capacity of 20-25 gallons (75-98 L) is an excellent size for a school of this species. The essential ingredient for this fish is a large, open swimming area. Suggest heavy planting along the sides and back of the tank. The tank must be well covered as this fish is a confirmed jumper. The Pearl Danio enjoys morning sunlight.
Water chemistry: pH 6-7.5 (6.8), 2-18 dH (8), 66-81°F (19-27°F)
Social behavior: A lively, schooling fish that should be kept in groups of six or more. The Pearl Danio can be kept in a community tank with other small schooling fish and Colisa species.
Suggested companions: Gouramis, Barbs, Danios, Bala Shark, Loaches, Corydoras, Loricarids, tetras.
FOOD: Live; insects; insect larvae, Daphnia , Brine Shrimp, Tubifex ; flakes, pellets.
Sexual differences: Females, when mature, are larger and rounder. Males are more colorful.
Breeding techniques: Increase the water temperature to 79-86°F (26-30°C) and lower the water level to four to six inches (10-15 cm). The tank should be packed with fine-leafed plants, and a substrate of round marbles is recommended. Place one male with several females in this tank, with the female having a couple days to acclimate, before the male is added. The eggs are scattered among plants. The adults must be removed right after spawning. Keep the tank dark to reduce chances of fungal infections. The eggs, numbering as many as 600, hatch after 24-36 hours, and the fry are free-swimming six to seven days later. The young can be raised on liquid foods, small Infusoria, and roftiers.
Breeding potential: 4. An easily bred, prolific species.
Remarks: The iridescent colors of this fish only show when kept in a tank with reflected, overhead light. A "Yellow Danio" color morph is occasionally available.
Difficulty of care: 1. A hardy, schooling fish which is recommended for any beginner.